Burns set to focus on Gloucester as he nears return to fitness

Freddie Burns has been frustratingly sidelined by injury since limping out of the Amlin Challenge Cup tie against Mont-de-Marsan in January. As a possible return gets closer, he's set to focus on performing for Gloucester above anything else.

That's my focus at the minute, helping us to get that victory on Friday night, any way I can.

Burns won his first England cap against New Zealand in the Autumn internationals, on the back of some scintillating club form.

The rugby media were tipping him to play a big role in England's RBS Six Nations campaign, but the injury against the French side could not have been worse timing in that respect.

He's patiently done his rehabilition work over the past few weeks but, asked about England prospects this week, stressed that it's all about proving himself for his club before he thinks about country.

"It was obviously a big blow to get injured before the Six Nations. I've missed most of the tournament, obviously I hope to be fit for the last two games, but I only have one game realistically to prove match fitness and form.

"As soon as I got injured, it was obviously a disappointment for the first couple of days. But you've just got to put it to one side and, not write off the Six Nations, because you want to get back and help the boys.

"But, firstly, it's about getting fit and, secondly, it's all about performing for Gloucester on Friday if I'm selected. That's my focus at the minute, helping us to get that victory on Friday night, any way I can.

"It's something I've tried to do all year, just focus on my game for Gloucester. That's what gets you noticed by the England coaching team.

"So, it's back to square one for me, doing what I do for Gloucester and, if it results in a call up, then that's great. In the meantime, I'll just keep working hard for the club."

Ed Slater took part in his first training session with his new team-mates on Tuesday morning, and told GRTV afterwards that a few familiar faces will help him settle in quickly ahead of an exciting season.

GRTV caught up with Gloucester Rugby's new signing Jason Woodward during his first week of preseason at the club. The new face spoke of his delight to be at the club, and in familiar surroundings of Hartpury College

Stephen Thomas, a regular at Gloucester Rugby's Walking Rugby sessions is in line for a top prize after being nominated for Premiership Rugby's BREAKTHRU Achiever of the Year award. He admitted to GRTV to being shocked and humbled by the news.

After a long build-up, Gloucester's Ross Moriarty made his first appearance in a British & Irish Lions shirt on Saturday. Speaking after the game, he admitted that it was good to finally get into action.

Lewis Ludlow, who has enjoyed a fine personal season, admitted to massive disappointment after the loss to Stade Francais but looked to draw positives before thanking the Gloucester fans for their support.

Friday evening will see Matt Scott return to Murrayfield, a venue he is very familiar with. Speaking ahead of the final, he admitted that he's incredibly excited about the European Rugby Challenge Cup Final against Stade Francais.